This systematic effort of the various denominations is being supported by the combined action of their clergy and laity in the East.  Men and money are flowing into the West to Christianize (sic!) our Catholic foreigners.  The final result of this proselytizing effort is not a permanent increased membership for these churches, but rather indifference and irreligion among our foreign element.  Facts and figures prove it.  And to re-establish these souls in the Faith of their Baptism is no easy task, we all know.  It is far easier to tear down than to rebuild.

This united action of the different Churches stands out in sharp contrast with the lack of co-operation among Catholics throughout Canada.  The absence of co-operation of the East with the West affects very seriously the welfare of the Church in the new Provinces.  We all willingly and gratefully acknowledge the contributions in men and money that have come from the East through the channels of the Religious Orders, of the Catholic Church Extension and from other sources.  But absorbed by parochial and diocesan interests the Catholic Church in Eastern Canada has not as yet fully realized the seriousness of our Western problems.  With its co-operation only can the weight of the Church as a whole be brought to bear in their solution.

This policy of unity of action is also most urgent for the Catholics of the Western Provinces.  We are a minority in each Province; concerted action can alone press our legitimate claims and bring to us success in these activities which necessarily overlap the boundaries of dioceses and provinces, as is the case with the Catholic Press and Higher Education.  Diocesan isolation, if we are not careful, can become the weakness of our strength, in these critical stages of rapid development.  Yet, there are no Provinces in the Dominion where the Church faces so many identical problems under identical conditions as in the Western Provinces.  Should not this alone suggest to our leaders a unity of plan and realize among our Western Catholics concerted action?

* * * * * *

As there is a silver lining to the darkest cloud, there is a bright side for the Church in conditions out West.

The striking feature of the Canadian West is the newness of the country.  Youth is stamped everywhere clear and bold; the dash and buoyancy of the people reflect it faithfully.  Optimism is the predominant note in that land of immensities and great possibilities.  Untrammelled by set traditions and cast-iron customs, every one is there to start a new life.  The past does not seem to exist for the Westerner; the future is his sole concern.

This newness of the country and the optimistic mood which it creates can be called into the service of the Church.  They form an atmosphere of tolerance which proves most helpful for the preaching of Her doctrine and the maintenance of Her institutions.